I'm manning phones at our Hurricane News Desk, transferring calls from our reporters out in the field, dictating stories and fielding calls from readers.
The latest we hear is that Charley has wobbled and is taking aim on either Fort Myers or Charlotte Harbor - which would be good news for us, at least. And that would be VERY good news for the Tampa Bay area. If the eye had gone over Pinellas, I can't imagine what would happen. The storm surge alone would wipe out a lot.
Our executive editor has delayed his decision on what to do till 3:15. It looks like we'll stay here - if we were to get hurricane-force winds, we shouldn't be in this building. Now that it looks like we'll get tropical-storm-force winds, we're in better shape.
This isn't a good sign. In Charlotte County, the Punta Gorda Emergency Operations Center has been evacuated.
Winds are starting to pick up. We've also noticed a "fully involved fire" at a Tire Factory (a tire store) a few blocks away. How the heck did that get started?
I just called my family and they're doing great. There's four adults and six kids - it's a big party.
Still, the worse has yet to come ... I snuck in a flask of red wine. I plan on sipping some when the lights go out.
How far from the nearest mosque?
You guys and your hurricane parties! -g-
Hope it does not hit you hard and prayers for those devasted by Charley
Thank you so much for the firsthand accounts JJ!